In this clip from his interview on ‘BagFuel’ podcast, Jae’won, an up-and-coming hip-hop artist dives deep into his journey, blending his education in psychology with his rise in media and music. From making waves in the hip-hop scene to earning a coveted spot on the ‘Joe Budden Podcast’. For Jae’won, understanding human behavior—whether it’s in music, business, or everyday life—has been key to navigating the complexities of both the music industry and media. His ability to empathize while remaining logical helps him handle conflicts and collaborations with a clear, strategic mind.
The conversation then turns to how he landed a spot on the ‘Joe Budden Podcast’ (JBP). Initially, he appeared on the podcast to promote a family coffee brand, sparking a connection with Joe Budden himself. After a second appearance alongside fellow artist Capella, Budden was impressed, reaching out with an offer.
Despite his media success, Jae’won remains laser-focused on his music career. With a passion for hip-hop culture, he’s not just settling for one lane. Inspired by multi-faceted legends like Kanye West and Virgil Abloh, he envisions a career where media and music coexist at the highest levels. The discussion also touches on the ever-relevant debate between mainstream success and independent artistry. When asked if he prefers staying indie or signing to a label, the artist acknowledges the advantages of both. He references artists like Smoke DZA, who dominate independent circuits while raking in more than some mainstream acts. “Smoke and them got that bread, bro,” he says, noting how some indie artists earn serious money without radio play or major label backing.
Still, he’s open to experiencing the full scope of the industry, saying, “I want the full experience… but even if I don’t hit the mainstream, my brand and what I’m doing, it’s going to get there regardless.”
Throughout the interview, Jae’won also speaks on the business side of hip-hop, sharing insights on ownership and profits. He admires the financial strategies of legends like Jay-Z and Nipsey Hussle, who prioritized ownership over immediate chart success, emphasizing the importance of gross earnings and maintaining creative control.